Sugar Intake and Your Oral Health: How Are They Linked

This video may be shocking for some, but it illustrates a huge problem that we face in the United States. Many Americans are being affected by excessive sugar intake and junk food. According to the research, sugar is more addictive than cocaine and is the main cause of Americaâ€™s obesity epidemic. Drinks containing processed sugar are the cause of multiple health issues and even mortality in the US.

Sugar and Your Overall Heath

Excessive sugar consumption affects your overall health in many ways. It can cause:

Type II diabetes

Heart disease

High blood pressure

Cancer

Cavities

Many studies have found that sugar has a more powerful effect on the human brain which is why it becomes difficult to cut off sugar addiction.

Sugar Consumption and Oral Health

You would be surprised to know that sugar does not directly cause tooth decay. It is the acid caused by bacteria in your mouth after sugar consumption that eventually leads to tooth decay. And this process occurs due to plaque – a sticky film of bacteria covering your teeth and gums.

When plaque comes in contact with sugar, it produces the acid that attacks your teeth and causes a small hole in your enamel. When you donâ€™t brush or floss your teeth regularly, this hole grows bigger and develops into a cavity that causes tooth decay if left untreated.